dios mabalos
The English phrase 'many thanks' is expressed in Bicol as maraming salamat.
This phrase is used to express a great deal of gratitude or thankfulness toward someone.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase dios mabalos literally means 'God will return [the favor/blessing]'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Camarines Norte, the phrase Mabalos po saindo is commonly used.
Did you know?
- The word balos in dios mabalos can also mean 'revenge' or 'retaliation' in other contexts. In the phrase of gratitude, however, it specifically refers to the positive 'returning' of a favor.
- The word salamat is a cognate of the Arabic salām, which means 'peace'. This shows the historical influence of Islamic trade and culture across the Malay archipelago before the arrival of Spanish colonists.
- While maraming salamat is used for gratitude, it is actually a loan-influence from Tagalog, making dios mabalos the more culturally distinct Bicol way to say thanks.
Examples in context
- Dios mabalos sa saindong gabos.Thank you all very much.
- Dios mabalos sa tabang mo.Thank you very much for your help.
- Dios mabalos sa regalong ini.Thank you so much for this gift.
Example conversation
Juan helps Angela carry some heavy bags.
- JuanHali na, tabangan taka.Come on, I will help you.
- AngelaDios mabalos, Juan!Thank you very much, Juan!
- JuanDai na magpasalamat.No need to thank me.
- AngelaMaboot ka talaga.You are really kind.
